Is this the right towing package?

[stillkickin]

I'm a real newbie and this is my first post. Have searched forums on towing but still unsure about what I can safely pull the SR5 V6.

Seriously looking at an '09 4Runner with V6 and "towing package". I want to pull my boat a few times a year. Total rig (boat, trailer, gas) = 5100lbs.

Dealer has one with "TOWING PACKAGE -INC: WEIGHT-CARRYING TOW HITCH, BALL MOUNT KIT".

Is this the weight distributing hitch that allows the V6 to pull up to 6700lbs?

Do I also need a tranny cooler as well?

I really want the 4Runner but it needs to pull my rig without killing anyone.

Thanks!

 

[stillkickin]

Ok, answered my own question - it's not WD hitch.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

The V6 T4R is rated for 500/5000lbs. You have the higher rated, V8 hitch (which is good).

If you click on the link in my sig you'll find a good thread on aux transmission coolers for the V6. In your situation I'd recommend one.

I am in no way advocating towing over limits. It could be dangerous, it may bring the warranty into a grey area (ie void) and isn't generally smart but you're talking 100lbs over. I'd try to tow the boat when it's low on gas and pack light with people/gear in the 4Runner. IMHO if you take the 100lbs out of the passenger compartment and tow a 5100lbs boat the T4R will be happy. The true goal is to not exceed 9600lbs (V6) and 9750lbs (V8). By that I mean the weight of the vehicle, approx 4500lb, plus cargo + trailer should be equal to or less than 9600lbs. (NOTE: Before the flaming begins Toyota used to provide the GCWR numbers. For some reason in 05 or 06 they stopped even though the vehicle didn't change mechanically. This is why if towing was the goal a V8 2wd would give the most capacity.)

I would also tell you the Tacoma uses the same V6 with the same transmission and the same axle ratio. It's rated for in excess of 6000lbs. The vehicle weights are similar, power output is about the same etc. The obvious difference is the Taco comes with an external style trans cooler like the ones I pointed too in my link.

Good luck!

You know... Newbie status, boat... :worthless:

:cheers: